A research group at the Kaunas Faculty of Vilnius University (VU KnF), in cooperation with BCCS (Blockchain, Cyber Security and Compliance Solutions) cluster and the Lithuanian Innovation Agency, is participating in one of the world's largest international technology exhibitions, GITEX Global 2025, in Dubai (UAE) on October 13-17.
During the visit, Prof. Dr Saulius Masteika, the Head of the FinTech, Blockchain, and Crypto Currency Research Group at the Institute of Social Sciences and Applied Informatics (SMTII), met with Prof. Hyunok Oh, the Head of the South Korean company Zkrypto Inc. and professor at Hanyang University, one of the world's leading universities. A cooperation agreement was signed during the meeting.
The resulting partnership will encompass research related to cryptographic methods, particularly zero-knowledge protocols (ZK-proof), their application in blockchain technologies and in the provision of digital services.
“The research covers both theoretical and practical applications of these technologies to ensure security, anonymity, transparency, and integrity, while protecting user privacy and combating manipulation and cyber attacks,” says Prof. Dr Saulius Masteika.
The scientific group he leads at VU KnF SMTII conducts experimental R&D research related to the application of ZK-proof protocols in innovative digital identity solutions. These studies are closely related to the topic of the doctoral thesis approved this year at Vilnius University, which explores the application of zero-knowledge protocols in the context of the decentralised finance sector.
At the international technology exhibition GITEX Global 2025, researchers from VU KnF are participating in business meetings at the Lithuanian national stand, taking an interest in the latest technological advancements in the fields of artificial intelligence, blockchains, decentralised technologies, cybersecurity, and robotics.
Moreover, they visited Expand North Star, an additional event at GITEX Global 2025 dedicated to global startup and technology innovation ecosystems, including blockchains, Fintech, and quantum computing.
“The event brings together startups, investors, and technology leaders, providing an opportunity to showcase the latest technologies, establish valuable connections, and find mentors. Thanks to the introduction of new technologies in blockchain, start-up competitions, and gatherings of innovators, we have a unique opportunity to identify the most relevant topics on a global level so that we can offer students topics for their final theses and directions for doctoral research,” summarises the Director of VU KnF SMTII, Assoc. Prof. Indrė Ščiukauskė.
The international technology exhibition GITEX Global 2025, attracting 200,000 visitors and 6,500 participants from 180 countries, is one of the most significant global platforms for showcasing digital transformation, artificial intelligence, software, cybersecurity, and emerging technology trends.